What occurs during reflection of light?

During the reflection of light, light bounces off a surface. This phenomenon occurs when light rays encounter a boundary between two different media, such as when light strikes a mirror or a calm body of water. The angle at which the light hits the surface, known as the angle of incidence, is equal to the angle at which it reflects off the surface, known as the angle of reflection. This behavior is described by the law of reflection, which is fundamental to understanding how images are formed in mirrors and other reflective surfaces. Reflection is distinct from processes like absorption or refraction, where light may either be taken in by a material or change direction as it passes through a medium, respectively.